[Audio] Kendrick Lamar premieres new single ‘i’

It has been nearly two years since Kendrick Lamar established himself as a hip hop heavyweight with “good Kid, m.A.A.d City,” and now he returns with “i,” the first single off the highly-anticipated sophomore project.

Los Angeles musician Rahki provides the production for the track, which samples the Isley Brother’s 70s hit “That Lady” to provide a distinct funk feel to the song.

The intro of the song proclaims that the TDE lyricist is not just a rapper; he’s a writer. Then, Kendrick launches into a dizzying array of bars with the prevailing theme of self-love and belief in oneself.

“Everybody lacks confidence. Everybody lacks confidence/How many times my potential was anonymous? How many times the city making me promises? So I promise this,” Kendrick says before shouting “I love myself” on the hook.

Although Kendrick’s second album doesn’t have an official title, nor a confirmed release date, fans should expect it to drop later this year.